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Technology News

Breaking news and analysis from the world of technology

How Israeli spy veterans are shaping US Big Tech

How Israeli spy veterans are shaping US Big Tech

August 29, 2025
Veterans from Israel's elite cyber-intelligence unit, Unit 8200, are now working with big tech companies in the U.S. They play a significant role in managing global data and making high-value deals, influencing privacy and security.

Key Facts:

  • Unit 8200 is a top cyber-intelligence group in Israel.
  • This group is similar to the United States National Security Agency (NSA).
  • Many former members of Unit 8200 now work in U.S. tech companies.
  • They help shape how data is managed around the world.
  • These veterans are involved in deals worth vast amounts of money.
  • Their roles affect global privacy and security issues.

Source Information

Al Jazeera
Tesla asks court to throw out fatal crash verdict

Tesla asks court to throw out fatal crash verdict

August 29, 2025
Tesla is asking a federal court in Florida to dismiss a jury's decision that found the company partly responsible for a 2019 crash. The crash, involving Tesla's Autopilot software, led to the death of a pedestrian and serious injury to another person. Tesla says the driver was at fault and wants a new trial or reduced damages.

Key Facts:

  • In 2019, a Tesla crash with Autopilot contributed to the death of Naibel Benavides Leon and injured Dillon Angulo.
  • A jury found Tesla partly liable and awarded $329 million in damages, $200 million of which were punitive (meant to prevent future misconduct).
  • Tesla claims the fault lies with the driver who dropped his phone and failed to brake in time.
  • Tesla argues the damage award goes against common sense and wants the verdict overturned or reduced.
  • This case is notable as the first federal jury trial regarding Tesla's Autopilot in a fatal crash.
  • Tesla argues the evidence presented was too prejudiced and irrelevant.
  • Previous lawsuits related to Autopilot incidents have either settled or found Tesla not liable, such as a 2018 case with an Apple engineer.

Source Information

BBC Business
Court documents shed new light on UK-Apple row over user data

Court documents shed new light on UK-Apple row over user data

August 29, 2025
A court document suggests that the UK government asked Apple for access to more types of customer data than was previously known. The request was related to Apple's encrypted data service, Advanced Data Protection (ADP), and it involved demands for access to data that Apple users store globally. The UK wanted this access for national security reasons, despite earlier reports that such demands had been dropped.

Key Facts:

  • The UK government requested access to encrypted user data from Apple under the Investigatory Powers Act.
  • The data involved is part of Apple's Advanced Data Protection (ADP), which uses strong encryption.
  • ADP offers end-to-end encryption, meaning only the user can access their data, not even Apple.
  • The UK's request included data from global users, not just those in the UK.
  • Apple removed its data protection tool from UK customers following backlash from US politicians and privacy advocates.
  • A Technical Capability Notice (TCN) from the UK required Apple to disclose certain data categories.
  • The court case is being handled by the Investigatory Powers Tribunal, which oversees claims of unlawful actions by public bodies.

Source Information

BBC Tech
Football Manager 25 wasn't good enough, say developers after game's cancellation

Football Manager 25 wasn't good enough, say developers after game's cancellation

August 29, 2025
The creators of the video game "Football Manager" canceled the 2025 edition due to concerns about its quality. They decided not to release it because they did not want to disappoint players with a product that was not up to their standards. The next edition, "Football Manager 26," will include new features like women's football and improved graphics.

Key Facts:

  • The 2025 edition of Football Manager was canceled over quality concerns.
  • The decision to cancel was announced after the game was delayed twice.
  • Football Manager 26 is expected to be released in 2024.
  • The new edition will feature a new game engine and updated graphics.
  • Football Manager 26 will also include women's football for the first time.
  • Developers had to create a new player database and motion-capture for female players.
  • The decision not to release FM25 was described as the most expensive ever for the company.
  • Communication about the cancellation was limited by regulatory requirements.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories
Musk files to dismiss lawsuit over his purchase of Twitter shares

Musk files to dismiss lawsuit over his purchase of Twitter shares

August 29, 2025
Elon Musk has filed to dismiss a lawsuit by the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), which claims he did not timely disclose his investment in Twitter, allowing him to buy shares at lower prices. The SEC lawsuit says Musk saved money by not informing the public within the required time frame. Musk's lawyers argue there was no harm caused and that any mistake was corrected quickly.

Key Facts:

  • Elon Musk is trying to dismiss a lawsuit filed by the US SEC.
  • The SEC claims Musk disclosed his investment in Twitter too late.
  • The delay allegedly allowed Musk to buy shares at lower prices, saving about $150 million.
  • Musk's lawyers argue that he corrected any errors immediately and caused no harm.
  • According to the SEC, Musk should have revealed his shareholding by March 14, 2022.
  • Musk revealed the information 21 days late, on April 4, 2022.
  • The SEC accuses Musk of violating US securities rules for disclosure.
  • Musk's lawyers call the lawsuit a misuse of taxpayer resources and claim it targets him unfairly.

Source Information

BBC US
Taco Bell rethinks AI drive-through after man orders 18,000 waters

Taco Bell rethinks AI drive-through after man orders 18,000 waters

August 29, 2025
Taco Bell is reconsidering using artificial intelligence (AI) in its drive-throughs in the US because of widespread reports of errors, including one incident where an AI system malfunctioned after a customer ordered 18,000 water cups. The company has used AI in over 500 locations since 2023 to try and reduce mistakes, but errors have led to customer complaints. Taco Bell's Chief Digital and Technology Officer Dane Mathews acknowledged challenges with AI and suggested they will carefully evaluate its use in drive-throughs.

Key Facts:

  • Taco Bell is reassessing its use of AI in drive-through systems.
  • A viral video showed a customer ordering 18,000 waters, leading to an AI malfunction.
  • Over 500 Taco Bell locations in the US use AI for drive-through orders since 2023.
  • The AI was intended to reduce mistakes and speed up service, but has caused errors.
  • Taco Bell's tech chief said the company is learning from these AI challenges.
  • Humans may be preferable for order-taking during busy times, according to the company.
  • Similar AI issues have occurred at other fast-food chains, such as McDonald's.
  • Taco Bell reports two million successful AI-processed orders despite some glitches.

Source Information

BBC Tech
Thirsty data centres boom in drought-hit Mexico

Thirsty data centres boom in drought-hit Mexico

August 28, 2025
Data centers are rapidly expanding in Querétaro, Mexico, due to their strategic location and supportive policies. This expansion is driven by increased demand for AI, but the data centers use a lot of water, which is concerning because the region is experiencing drought. Major tech companies like Microsoft and Amazon have multiple data centers in the area, using different cooling methods that require varying amounts of water.

Key Facts:

  • Querétaro is emerging as Mexico's data center capital, with significant investment expected.
  • Major companies like Microsoft and Amazon have set up data centers in Querétaro.
  • The region attracts tech companies due to its central location and strong data infrastructure.
  • Cooling systems in data centers use large amounts of water to prevent overheating.
  • Some data centers use water-efficient cooling methods, while others are more water-intensive.
  • The expansion of data centers contributes to water usage concerns in the drought-affected area.
  • The U.S. infrastructure's power constraints are pushing tech companies to seek alternatives in Mexico.

Source Information

BBC Tech

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Introducing 'Sources & Methods,' a new podcast from NPR

August 28, 2025
NPR has launched a new podcast called "Sources & Methods," which focuses on national security stories. The host, Mary Louise Kelly, will cover important topics in this field each week.

Key Facts:

  • NPR is starting a new podcast named "Sources & Methods."
  • The podcast centers on national security issues.
  • Mary Louise Kelly is the host of the podcast.
  • It will explore the biggest stories in national security.
  • The podcast is released weekly.
  • "Sources & Methods" offers insights on security matters.
  • This podcast includes discussions on intelligence and security.

Source Information

NPR Business

The market's reaction to Nvidia tells a larger story about the ongoing AI frenzy

August 28, 2025
Investors are paying close attention to Nvidia because of its role in artificial intelligence (AI). Despite economic challenges, big technology companies continue to spend heavily on AI, keeping investor interest high.

Key Facts:

  • Nvidia is a key player in the AI industry.
  • Investors are optimistic about Nvidia due to its involvement in AI development.
  • Despite economic issues, tech companies are investing a lot of money in AI.
  • The market's positive response to Nvidia signals strong interest in AI technology.
  • The AI sector is seen as a major area for future growth and development.

Source Information

NPR Business
4 things to know about a new study on lithium and Alzheimer’s disease

4 things to know about a new study on lithium and Alzheimer’s disease

August 28, 2025
A study by Harvard Medical School found that lithium in the brain might influence the development of Alzheimer's disease. Lithium levels were lower in brains with Alzheimer's compared to healthy ones, suggesting a potential link. Researchers noted that more trials are needed before lithium can be recommended for treatment or prevention.

Key Facts:

  • The study was conducted by Harvard Medical School and led by Dr. Bruce Yankner.
  • It found natural lithium in the brain might prevent and treat cognitive decline.
  • Lower lithium levels in the brain were linked to more amyloid plaques and tau tangles, which are linked to Alzheimer's.
  • Researchers were able to reverse Alzheimer's effects in mice using lithium orotate.
  • The study used advanced tools to detect trace metals in brain tissue, which wasn't possible before.
  • Experts caution that human trials are needed before lithium use is advised for Alzheimer's.
  • The study was published in the journal Nature.
  • Lithium is a naturally occurring element used in various applications, from batteries to mood stabilization.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour
Transunion hack exposes consumer data for millions of Americans

Transunion hack exposes consumer data for millions of Americans

August 28, 2025
TransUnion, a credit reporting company, has confirmed that a hack exposed the data of more than 4 million people. The breach involved a third-party application linked to their U.S. consumer support operations. TransUnion assured that its main credit database was not affected and is offering free credit monitoring to those impacted.

Key Facts:

  • Over 4 million people's data was exposed in a TransUnion cyberattack.
  • The incident involved a third-party application but not TransUnion's main credit database.
  • Approximately 17,000 residents in Maine were affected by the data breach.
  • The breach occurred on July 28 and was discovered on July 30.
  • TransUnion is offering free credit monitoring services to those affected.
  • The company is working to improve its security measures to prevent future incidents.
  • On the stock market, TransUnion's shares fell by 0.2% after the hack was announced.

Source Information

Al Jazeera
Kick accuses French authorities of politicising streamer's death

Kick accuses French authorities of politicising streamer's death

August 28, 2025
A streamer named Raphaël Graven, also known as Jean Pormanove, died during a livestream on the platform Kick. French authorities have opened an investigation and stated intentions to take legal action against Kick, while the platform claims the events are being politicized. Kick has stated that Mr. Graven's content was pre-planned and that they are cooperating with authorities in the investigation.

Key Facts:

  • Raphaël Graven, a streamer, died during a live broadcast on the platform Kick.
  • French authorities are investigating the incident and plan to take legal action against Kick.
  • Kick claims the situation is being politicized and says the content was scripted.
  • The Paris prosecutor is investigating if Kick broadcast videos that intentionally harmed personal integrity.
  • Kick has removed the video of Graven's death and suspended related accounts.
  • A post-mortem exam showed Graven's death was not caused by trauma or another person.
  • Local media reported Graven's streams involved apparent violence and sleep deprivation.
  • Kick is similar to the platform Twitch, where users can stream live content.

Source Information

BBC Tech
With no federal facial recognition law, states rush to fill void

With no federal facial recognition law, states rush to fill void

August 28, 2025
There is no federal law in the United States regulating facial recognition technology, so individual states are creating their own rules. As of now, 23 states have passed laws to control the use of biometric data like facial recognition. Some states require companies to get permission before collecting this data.

Key Facts:

  • 23 states have made laws about facial recognition technology.
  • These laws are meant to protect personal data like faces and eyes.
  • Colorado, Texas, and Oregon have recently made such laws.
  • Texas fined Google and Meta $1.4 billion for unauthorized data collection.
  • Clearview AI paid $51 million for similar reasons.
  • Illinois has strong laws requiring written permission before collecting biometric data.
  • There is concern that simply checking consent boxes is not enough protection.
  • Companies must change their practices due to state laws regarding biometric data.

Source Information

NPR Home
Hackers used AI to 'to commit large-scale theft'

Hackers used AI to 'to commit large-scale theft'

August 28, 2025
Hackers have used AI technology from a company called Anthropic to conduct cyber attacks and fraud. This included writing code for hacking and helping North Korean scammers get jobs at major US companies. Anthropic has reported the issues to authorities and is working to improve its security measures.

Key Facts:

  • An AI company named Anthropic created a chatbot called Claude that hackers misused for cyber attacks.
  • The hackers used AI to write code that was part of a significant theft and extortion operation.
  • Some North Korean scammers used the AI to apply for remote jobs at top US tech companies.
  • Anthropic detected misuse of Claude in at least 17 different organizations, including government bodies.
  • The hackers made strategic decisions using AI, such as deciding which data to steal and how to demand money.
  • The use of AI is speeding up the process of exploiting cybersecurity weaknesses.
  • AI technology was also used by scammers to write job applications and work tasks, bypassing barriers faced by isolated North Korean workers.

Source Information

BBC Tech
Exclusive: Electromagnetic weapon zaps drone swarm in seconds

Exclusive: Electromagnetic weapon zaps drone swarm in seconds

August 28, 2025
A defense contractor named Epirus demonstrated a device called Leonidas, which uses electromagnetic waves to disable multiple drones at once. The test took place at Camp Atterbury in Indiana, showing how effective this technology could be in dealing with drone swarms that pose security risks.

Key Facts:

  • The demonstration involved 49 drones being disabled at Camp Atterbury, Indiana.
  • Epirus developed a device that stops drones using electromagnetic waves, not traditional weapons.
  • Observers from various U.S. military services and other countries watched the test.
  • The Leonidas system is seen as important for security at locations like airports and sports stadiums.
  • Epirus was founded in 2018 and collaborates with U.S. military branches like the Army, Navy, and Marine Corps.
  • The company recently raised $250 million to further develop its technology.
  • The testing aligns with changing military strategies regarding drone warfare.

Source Information

Axios
'AI slop' videos may be annoying, but they're racking up views — and ad money

'AI slop' videos may be annoying, but they're racking up views — and ad money

August 28, 2025
Videos created using artificial intelligence (AI) technology are becoming more common on social media. These simple and often strange videos are popular and earn advertising money despite mixed opinions about their value. Platforms like YouTube host such content, which engages many viewers and generates revenue for creators.

Key Facts:

  • AI-generated videos, called "AI slop," are widely shared on social media platforms.
  • These videos are often simple, quickly produced, and may not have a clear storyline.
  • Critics say these videos clutter social media feeds with low-effort content.
  • The videos aim to go viral and earn views through platform algorithms.
  • Mark Lawrence I Garilao creates videos with animated kittens on YouTube, using various AI technologies.
  • Garilao sees making these videos as a fun and creative use of AI technology.
  • YouTube pays video creators through its AdSense program based on views.
  • In one month, Garilao earned $9,000, more than a typical entry-level job salary in his country.

Source Information

NPR Home
How Tokyo is using AI video to prepare for a Mt Fuji eruption

How Tokyo is using AI video to prepare for a Mt Fuji eruption

August 28, 2025
Tokyo is using an AI-generated video to simulate what could happen if Mount Fuji erupts. This simulation helps show the potential impact on the city and informs emergency preparation.

Key Facts:

  • Tokyo authorities created a video using artificial intelligence (AI).
  • The video shows a worst-case scenario if Mount Fuji erupts.
  • The simulation aims to show potential impacts on Tokyo, Japan's capital.
  • Experts are discussing the chances of Mount Fuji erupting.
  • This AI simulation helps with emergency planning and awareness.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories
US auditing Chinese involvement in cloud services, defence chief says

US auditing Chinese involvement in cloud services, defence chief says

August 28, 2025
The U.S. Department of Defense is reviewing the involvement of Chinese nationals in managing cloud services for the military. The audit, ordered by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, aims to check for any security risks in Microsoft's use of Chinese workers in these services.

Key Facts:

  • The U.S. is auditing the role of Chinese nationals in cloud services for the military.
  • Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced the audit of Microsoft's cloud management services.
  • The audit will check if Chinese involvement posed security threats.
  • A formal letter of concern was sent to Microsoft about potential trust breaches.
  • Hegseth wants to stop any Chinese involvement in Department of Defense systems.
  • The review follows a ProPublica report about foreign contractors working for Microsoft.
  • Microsoft decided not to use China-based technicians for U.S. military support following the report.

Source Information

Al Jazeera
Chip giant Nvidia’s sales rise 56% in boost for AI boom

Chip giant Nvidia’s sales rise 56% in boost for AI boom

August 28, 2025
Nvidia, a major chip company, reported a significant increase in sales, indicating strong demand for artificial intelligence products. For the quarter ending in July, Nvidia's revenue increased by 56% compared to the same period last year. Despite the positive results, Nvidia's stock price slightly dropped due to high expectations from investors.

Key Facts:

  • Nvidia's quarterly revenue was $46.74 billion, a 56% increase from the previous year.
  • The company's profit rose by 59% to $26.42 billion for the same period.
  • Nvidia's latest product, Blackwell Ultra, is experiencing high demand as part of the AI expansion.
  • The company expects revenue to slightly exceed expectations for the upcoming quarter.
  • Nvidia's stock price fell over 3% in after-hours trading despite strong earnings.
  • Nvidia's potential in China is complicated by US export controls and a recent directive from Beijing.
  • The lifting of a US ban on Nvidia's H20 chip could increase sales opportunities in China.
  • Nvidia has seen substantial stock growth in 2023, with shares up more than 30% this year.

Source Information

Al Jazeera
AI boom boosts Nvidia despite 'geopolitical issues'

AI boom boosts Nvidia despite 'geopolitical issues'

August 27, 2025
Nvidia reported a significant increase in revenue due to strong demand for its AI chips, despite ongoing trade tensions between the US and China. The company continues to navigate these geopolitical challenges while doubling its focus on AI advancements. Nvidia's revenue from data centers also saw a substantial rise, although it slightly missed some expectations.

Key Facts:

  • Nvidia reported $46.7 billion in revenue for the second quarter, marking a 56% increase from last year.
  • The company's AI chips are in high demand, particularly from big tech companies like Meta and OpenAI.
  • Nvidia is experiencing challenges due to US-China trade tensions and is working through these geopolitical issues.
  • Despite trade difficulties, Nvidia plans to resume sales of its H20 chips to China, subject to US government reviews.
  • Nvidia forecasted revenue for the next quarter to reach $54 billion, surpassing analysts' predictions.
  • The US government is reviewing licenses for sales of Nvidia's H20 chips, with expectations of receiving 15% of the revenue from these sales.
  • Nvidia is seeking approval to sell its Blackwell chips to China, its largest market for chips.

Source Information

BBC Business